Listen to music from Hangout Fest lineup with Spotify playlist

Use our Spotify playlist crafted around the 2012 Hangout lineup to get an early taste of the festival.

GULF SHORES, Alabama -- More than 40 acts so far have been officially announced for the 2012 Hangout Music Festival lineup. And while every fan will have some bands stand out for them personally, it would be a rare music enthusiast who would be familiar with each and every one.

You know Jack White for The White Stripes, but have you heard his solo work?

You've heard Randy Newman's songs in Disney movies, but what about his other (more "grown up") music?

Maybe you're familiar with The Flaming Lips' own material, but have you heard them cover Pink Floyd?

There's been plenty of local buzz about Alabama Shakes and Yelawolf, but have you listened to their music yet?

Showing up just to see the headliners would leave you missing a huge part of Hangout. There are wonderful sounds to be absorbed all day. Music festivals offer an unparalleled opportunity for discovery -- whether it's an up-and-comer that turns into a new favorite, a classic artist who you've never given their due, or a sound that's altogether unfamiliar to you but catches hold in the right atmosphere.

But there's no reason that discovery has to wait until the weekend of May 18-20 when the Hangout Festival takes place in Gulf Shores.

Check out this Hangout Music Fest 2012 Spotify playlist featuring selections from all the currently-announced performers. If you find something you like, click on the artist's name to bring up more of their music. By the time Hangout arrives, you might already be singing along to something new.

If you don't already have a Spotify account, you can create one for free using your Facebook login.